9 Little Ways To Make A Positive Change In 2017

It’s ‘new year, new me’ time. Although we think you can make a change no matter what time of the year it is, there’s no better time than the new year to start those goals you’ve been thinking about all through December.

Here are our nine tops tips to start your new year off with a bang.

1. ‘My time’ music

If you’re struggling to get in the zone, have all your best tunes ready to help you get pumped and motivated for a great session. Hard, heavy music helps push through those gruelling leg sessions. Tell me: who has ever trained and not had Drake heavily feature on their playlist? It’s an unwritten law.

2.  Herbs and spice & all things nice

Not only do they add flavor to your healthy recipes, but they are very beneficial to health. Did you know that cinnamon helps stabilize blood sugar levels? You’re more likely to savor your meals when you know how nutritious they are.

3. Embracing the outdoors

Being outside will increase your ability to make that mind-body connection. At the gym, it’s easy to fall into a routine of the same machines, certain sets and reps. You will likely feel more stimulated when exercising outside.

4.  Pick ’n’ mix workouts

One of the best things about fitness is that you can mix things up – anytime, any place anywhere. You don’t need to be exclusive with your training. By keeping your body guessing, you will be really responsive to your training. Try something else: push yourself out of your comfort zone. You will find a passion for something new.

5. Extend your wardrobe

When I go to the gym and I like what I am wearing, I just feel better being there. Who doesn’t love a new pair of figure flattering leggings? Next time you’re shopping, treat yourself to a new gym outfit. There is nothing wrong with wanting to look good.

6.  Away Days

If you feel stuck in a rut, the best thing you can do is just to take a break. I find that, after a few days out of the gym, it makes me realize how much I enjoy training and miss that feeling of achievement. That way, when I get back in there, I feel hungry for it. They say distance makes the heart grow fonder…

7. Tracking progress achieving goals

People make the mistake of thinking that ‘progress’ is just an aesthetic change and end up disheartened if they can’t see their abs. Sure, if you’re training for a fitness show then weight loss will be part of your goal, but if not, why not try measuring something else – like hitting a PB on your squat?

8.  Keep it varied

Try a new workout, cook a new meal, shop for a new supplement, or simply sit down with a cup of coffee and enjoy the new FitJoy nutrition bar. It will help you look forward to your next workout and reinforce all of the progress you have already made. FitJoy balances tasting good with actually being good for you, too.

9. Digital interest

Whether it’s someone you’ve “met” on Instagram, or a fellow health fan in spin class, take the time to say hello; why not go crazy and even compliment them? Regardless of where we each are on our fitness journeys, we share a similar outlook and can relate to one another’s ups and downs. Acknowledge others’ progress and, who knows, they might return the favour.

Find more fitness tips and more in every issue of TRAIN for HER.